Happy that others also enjoyed The Modern and Claude Bosi at Bibendum!

I had a lovely dinner at Le Bernardin a few days ago. I had the Chef's Tasting Menu with wine pairings. Highlights were the poached lobster tail with black truffle tagliatelle, the Dover sole, and crab cake. The wine pairings were very good, both in quality and in ability to match the food. My friend had the new vegetarian tasting menu, which she absolutely adored. The first course was celeriac veloute with black truffle, served inside a whole celery root--it was beautifully presented and delicious!

I am dismayed to report that my flight to California was cancelled because of the snow, and so I'll be unable to make my reservation at SingleThread. I had to pay for the booking (for 4 people) upfront via Tock and in theory it is nonrefundable. I have sent them an email and have left a message explaining we couldn't get a flight out until next week, when the restaurant is closed, so we can't make it. I do hope they will refund us.

Will be at Momofuku Ko next week, and possibly also either Aquavit or Daniel. Any thoughts on which one you would pick? Am also contemplating Per Se.

In other news, Grace in Chicago has closed permanently. The Fat Duck has raised prices from 275 GBP to 325 GBP, effective for reservations starting in April. Per Se has raised prices from $325 to $340, still service included. L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon in NYC (not technically a Michelin-starred restaurant yet, but we all know it will be as soon as the 2019 guide is out) has set prices for their tasting menu at $325, service included. Wine pairings at $150 or $275. I think they are shooting for 3 stars based on the menu and prices.